Journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition
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J. Pediatr. Gastroenterol. Nutr. · Jan 2007
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyDouble-blind, placebo-controlled trial comparing effects of supplementation of two micronutrient sprinkles on fatty acid status in Cambodian infants.
Infants in developing countries require early dietary interventions to prevent nutritional deficiencies, above all protein, energy, iron and zinc. To what extent these interventions may affect the fatty acid (FA) status is still unknown. ⋯ Supplementation with iron, folic acid, zinc and vitamins was associated with an increase of linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid levels in Cambodian infants versus placebo, without significant changes in the concentrations of their longer chain derivatives, resulting in a FA status closer to Italian counterparts for the essential polyunsaturated FA levels. The iron/folate-treated infants showed no differences compared with the other 2 groups. Studies are needed to differentiate the potential effects of the supplemented micronutrients on the FA status.
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J. Pediatr. Gastroenterol. Nutr. · Dec 2006
EditorialSuccessful food-based programmes, supplementation and fortification.
This review highlights interventions and delivery mechanisms to alleviate macro- and micronutrient deficiencies in preschool children. These deficiencies can be addressed through an integrated combination of improved dietary intake, supplementation, commercial and home-based fortification of complementary foods. Several developed and developing countries have implemented successful approaches to eliminate protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies with sustained impact. ⋯ Often a period of voluntary fortification needs to be followed by mandatory requirement to ensure full compliance and sustained impact. The review concludes that proven technologies, communications and infrastructure can be harnessed to ensure that the nutrient needs of preschool children are met. When administered systematically with the commitment of and participation by the public and private sectors, most of the major deficiencies can be bridged on a sustained basis, contributing to improved health and well-being of millions of children around the world.